Overview
Castel Sant'Angelo is a towering cylindrical building in Rome, initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. Later, it was used by the popes as a fortress and castle, and is now a museum.
It has been the scene of many important events in Italian and Vatican history, including the execution of the heretic Giordano Bruno and the death of the poet Cagliostro.
Location
Address
Lungotevere Castello 50, Rome
Neighborhood: Prati
Coordinates
41.900800, 12.460900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • flowering gardens
- • outdoor exhibits
summer
hot
- • extended evening hours
- • outdoor film screenings
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall foliage
- • harvest displays
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • festive decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check the weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • many stairs and uneven surfaces
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
Euro
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week in advance
- • official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for an additional fee
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Castel Sant'Angelo Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide with historical commentary, Ticket booking and skip-the-line passes, Special event notifications
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes, Main terrace
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Rome Fiumicino International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2-3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful architecture, and stunning views
Historical Significance: Important events in Italian and Vatican history, transformation from mausoleum to fortress to museum
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for Rome residents
- Best food and coffee at the back entrance cafes
- Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free entry
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local gelato at nearby cafes
- • Ask for a guide with historical knowledge
- • Visit the nearby Prati district for authentic Roman cuisine
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main terrace
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for panoramic views
Result: Stunning views of Rome and the Tiber River
Courtyard
Best Time: Midday
Tips: Low angle for dramatic architecture
Result: Impressive shots of the castle's interior
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
St. Peter's Basilica
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Religious Site
Vatican Museums
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Museum
Piazza Navona
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Square
Pantheon
Distance: 1.8km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Historical Monument
Trevi Fountain
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Fountain
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online to skip the line"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Great views from the terrace"
- "Comfortable shoes essential"
- "Audio guide highly recommended"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
174
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
€15